UPDATE: Five Family Members Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide in Douglas, Georgia
DOUGLAS, Georgia — Five members of the same immediate family are dead following a shooting at a residence in Douglas, Coffee County, Georgia, on Friday night, October 9, 2026. Relatives have identified the suspected shooter as 64-year-old John Fabrizio, who they say killed his wife, two sons and a daughter-in-law before taking his own life in an apparent murder-suicide.
According to the Douglas Police Department, officers responded to a residence at 1807 Robin Lane at approximately 11:09 p.m. following a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers discovered five people suffering from gunshot wounds. All five were subsequently pronounced dead.
The incident has prompted an ongoing investigation by local authorities, who confirmed Saturday that the deceased individuals belonged to the same immediate family and lived together in the home.
Victims Identified by Relatives
According to information provided by relatives, the victims include 28-year-old James Fabrizio, 64-year-old Rachel Elizabeth Fabrizio, 26-year-old William Fabrizio and an unidentified daughter-in-law.
John Fabrizio was also found dead at the residence. Family members say he was responsible for the shootings before turning the weapon on himself.
The deaths have devastated relatives and loved ones, with multiple generations of one family reportedly lost in a single incident.
Authorities have not yet released a complete official identification of all five deceased individuals in the information provided. The identity of the daughter-in-law has not been made public.
Police Confirm Five Fatalities
In a press release, the Douglas Police Department confirmed that officers were dispatched to the residence shortly after 11 p.m. Friday following a report of gunfire.
“Upon arrival, officers located five individuals suffering from gunshot wounds,” the department stated, adding that all five had been pronounced deceased.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing and that additional information would be released as it becomes available.
While relatives have described the incident as a murder-suicide involving John Fabrizio and members of his family, investigators are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Officials Address Tragedy During Saturday Press Conference
During a press conference Saturday afternoon, Douglas police confirmed that the five people who died in Friday night’s shooting were members of the same immediate family who lived together in the residence.
Douglas Police Chief Brannen Pruette, Coffee County Sheriff Fred T. Cole, Douglas Mayor Tony L. Paulk and City Manager Charlie Davis addressed the incident, providing updates on the investigation and expressing condolences to those affected.
The officials’ appearance underscored the seriousness of the incident and its impact on the Douglas community.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting at the Robin Lane residence. Authorities have not yet publicly provided a complete account of what led to the incident or established a motive.
The Douglas Police Department said further information would be released as it becomes available.
For now, relatives are left mourning five members of one family, while the community awaits additional answers about the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
This remains a developing story. Further updates are expected as authorities release more information.
